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A celebration of the Blues

W.C. Handy, known as the Father of the Blues, wrote that his time spent in Henderson greatly influenced his music. His spirit continues with the annual W.C. Handy Blues & Barbecue Festival in Henderson – one of the largest free music festivals in the nation.

The birthplace of Bluegrass

Bluegrass music was born in the Bluegrass, Blues & Barbecue Region. From rollicking weekly barn dances to lively annual festivals – and the home of the International Bluegrass Music Museum – there’s no better place to clap your hands and stomp your feet.

A long tradition of barbecue

Our barbecue heritage dates back to the 1830s, when churches began holding annual barbecues to build community and raise funds. This delectable style of western Kentucky barbecue continues today, with an abundance of church festivals and numerous restaurants slow-cooking mutton, chicken and pork over smoky hickory-wood fires.

Welcome!

Welcome to the Bluegrass, Blues & Barbecue Region of Western Kentucky where our name tells our story! These three “Bs” have not only made this area famous in Kentucky, but across the world!

The region has deep roots in music heritage with two pioneers calling the region home: Bill Monroe is the “Father of Bluegrass” and W.C. Handy is known as the “Father of Blues.” The tasty side of the region is our barbecue, renowned across the globe! We are home to a unique style of barbecue that can be found only in this part of the world. The region boasts more than 25 local barbecue restaurants and the world famous International Bar-B-Q Festival!

Our name tells you what made this nine-county region famous, but once you get here you’ll find much more than music and food! Take some time and stay awhile to discover a wealth of outdoor adventures and unique festivals, plus exceptional shopping and dining as you explore our arts, history and culture.